Emperor Nero Imperial Roman Coins

Born Lucius Domitius Ahenobarbus in 37, Nero was the last emperor of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. He was adopted by his grand-uncle Claudius to become heir and his reign began after his grand-uncles assassination. Nero was the youngest Emperor after ascending to the title at just 17 years of age.

He was known as the emperor who “fiddled while Rome burned” and is remembered as a playboy and tyrant, he murdered his mother as her political influence would interfere with his divorce plans. After a romantic involvement with his best friend Othos' wife Poppaea, Nero decided to seek divorce from his wife (and step-sister) and claim Poppaea for his own. On the positive side he introduced cultural aspects such as theatre and athletics to Rome with the help of his Greek connections.

His reign consisted of a victorious war and then a peace negotiation with the Parthian Empire, improving diplomatic ties with Greece. He suppressed both the British revolt during 60-61 as well as a revolt in Gaul in 68. It was Galba’s Hispanic revolt in 68 that prompted Nero’s suicide and led to the Civil War.